Where To Research Car Spare Key Online
Types of car spare keys (recommended you read)
It doesn't matter if you've lost your key during grocery shopping or you put it down to get your coffee, missing keys to cars can happen. Keep a spare car key in your possession and be sure to check the places you frequently leave your keys.
Grocery stores like Save Mart and H-E-B have self-service key duplication machines that can copy keys to homes, and occasionally keys for cars and key fobs. Visit their website for current prices and more information.
Valet keys
Valet keys allow the vehicle to run, but do not unlock the trunk or the glovebox. They are a less expensive option than a standard replacement key. Most often, they are employed by hotel valet attendants as well as mechanics working in repair shops to gain access to the vehicle of a customer. However, they can also be employed by a private party to gain entry into the vehicle in the event that the remote key fob battery goes out.
The primary reason to employ valet services is to deter theft. Valet parking attendants are known for taking their customers' cars on rides. Valet keys act as an effective deterrent, making it more difficult to take the car. Valet keys are also useful for people who leave valuables in the glovebox or trunk of their cars.
Modern valet keys have retained the original function of the older locks, and they can still open the door of a driver, but not the lock on the central console or in the trunk. Some high-end luxury vehicles also contain features that increase the security of the valet keys for example, a limit on power output. This prevents the vehicle from being started using the key spare unless the engine is shut off.
These features are a great beginning but the valet key has its flaws. For instance, some thieves are aware of the limitations of these keys and can make use of an crowbar to force them open. Some valet keys also have weaker locks compared to standard replacement key fobs.
In certain situations the valet key might not function as expected, especially if it has been dropped or damaged. The key may stop working abruptly and the owner might need to call an locksmith to get it replaced. It is essential to ensure that you have a working spare key in case of this issue.
Visit your local Mister Minit to get a duplicate if you need a new key for your vehicle or lost your Attendant Key. It is helpful to have the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle when you come in to get a replacement.
Traditional Keys
Traditional keys are simple at the edges, and are easy for locksmiths to make. They don't contain transponders and do not require encryption. They are made of nickel or brass and therefore more durable. They can also endure rough handling and severe use.
A spare key can save you the hassle of having to rekey your car should you lose it. Keep one separate from your keychain to make it easier to find. You can even leave it with a friend or family member you trust to drive your car if you lock yourself out.
Most national home improvement chains and hardware stores offer key duplication at affordable prices. They usually have a machine called KeyMe where you can quickly duplicate your standard keys within minutes. You can locate a store near you by going to their website. Some of them also make key fobs that can be used to start vehicles by pushing buttons.
Contact us prior to going to a shop that offers these services. You can also look online to determine what kind of keys they are capable of making. Some locksmiths may not be able to create keys for locks with high security.
You'll need to replace your smart key at the dealership, if you own one. Before they can make you a new key they'll need to prove that you have the vehicle. To do this, they'll need evidence of your ownership, such as your registration or title.
If you have an old key, you can visit an auto parts shop or locksmith. Both will be able to make you a replacement key quickly and at a reasonable cost. They can duplicate your original key or give you an unprogrammable key that is blank. They will need the year the make, model, and year of your vehicle to accomplish that, so you'll need to have this information in your possession if you're planning on going to these locations to get your spare key made.
Transponder Keys
Unlike traditional keys, which utilize metal contacts to open the lock or start the car, transponder keys feature an electronic microchip built into the head of the key. When the key is activated the microchip emits a low-level signal. The signal is a digital serial number that matches up with the key's code in the car's computer system. The immobilizer system in the vehicle is turned off when the correct code matches.
Besides providing more security, transponder keys also make it much harder to duplicate your car keys. Some cars will not start when you use the wrong key (except for keys that are non-transponder). This is why they are the preferred option for those who want to lower the likelihood that your car could be stolen or duplicated.
If you lose or have your transponder keys stolen you should get a spare made as soon as you can. Fortunately, a lot of locksmiths in the automotive field can repair the key fob or design keys that are blank and can be used in conjunction with a switchblade to provide the same function as your original key.
A transponder key replacement may be expensive However, it's typically less expensive than paying to have your vehicle tow and recovered after a theft. Additionally, it could be quicker than going to the dealership.
A locksmith can replace the key that is broken or lost and can also repair your ignition and other car hardware. They can also make duplicate keys for all types and makes of vehicles which makes them the best choice if you require a replacement or lost your keys.
It's essential to keep your spare car keys somewhere secure and not on your keychain. This will ensure that you don't risk accidentally losing or misplacing it. It will also make it easier to find your car when you're in a rush. If you're concerned about leaving your spare car key visible, place it in the car's dashboard or in a hidden compartment.
Remote Keys
In modern vehicles, a key fob is required in addition to the traditional car keys made of metal. The key fob appears like a smartphone rather than a car key. Key fobs are able to unlock and lock your car using the button. It also lets you start your car remotely.
Certain cars allow you to "summon" your vehicle by pressing a single button, similar to Tesla's summon feature. This is useful when you have to get into a tight parking space.
Sometimes, keys to cars stop working at the worst possible moment. You might be at a gas station, heading to buy some groceries, or simply returning home after a long day when you put your keys down for just an instant only to realize you forgot to bring a spare van keys key along with you. It can be quite frustrating! Luckily, a majority of our stores can repair and provide new key replacements on the spot.
If your car is equipped with a remote key, it will have a small chip in it that needs to be programmed. The majority of Mister Minit's locations are equipped with the equipment needed to duplicate your transponder key. We can do this while you wait, typically in less than 30 minutes, which is enough time to complete your errands and then pick the keys to your car.
Bring your key to one of our shops to have it duplicated. We will need to know the year, MAKE and MODEL of your vehicle in order to duplicate the correct key/fob for your specific vehicle.
Visit your local Mister Minit today if you require a spare car keys or if you want to have peace of mind. We'll have the tools and know-how much for spare car key to create an extra car key that will last for the rest of your life. Make sure you keep it in a safe place!